Starlink Moves a Step Closer in South Africa

South Africa has taken a small but significant step towards allowing Starlink to operate locally. Communications Minister Solly Malatsi has issued a policy direction that could let satellite internet firms meet empowerment rules through investment programmes rather than local equity sales.

The change does not amount to approval. Licensing rules still need to be updated by ICASA, and political resistance could slow the process, meaning any launch remains uncertain and not imminent.